Going abroad? Make sure you don’t miss any important documents with this comprehensive checklist. From passport and visa requirements, you’ll be ready for your trip in no time!
If someone says that the prospect of traveling abroad to another country does not excite them, they are probably lying. Traveling to different countries changes our perspective on culture, habits, and life. However, we must handle several essential documents and government formalities to create a smooth, enjoyable overseas trip.
You may find numerous apps to help you manage your travel itinerary, tickets, and other documents. But now, you can also use the digital health locker to store all your essential health and medical records. It enables you to access all your medical documentation, wherever you are. If you are an older person with health conditions, keeping your medical records handy while you travel is helpful.
Here is a detailed list of essential travel documents:
Passport and Travel Visa
Obtaining a passport is the first step in planning a trip abroad. Moreover, the passport’s expiration date should be after six months or until you return. If your passport is about to expire, get it renewed before planning any other travel. Get your passport ready before you begin the process of applying for a visa. A visa is a stamp on your passport to show that you have permission to enter another country. In most countries, you may not enter without a valid visa. Check the terms and conditions for a visa before you travel. In some countries, you can get a visa on arrival, while in other places, you must apply beforehand.
Copies of All Identification Documents
You may need to submit copies of your identification proof at your hotel or other places of interest. Carry original identification documents, such as your driver’s license or social security card. Your passport is also an identification document, but you must keep one other identification with you. Keep some copies of identity documents and a copy of your passport with you. A digital copy or photograph of your passport or identification is acceptable in most places. However, keeping at least one photocopy of identification documents with you is best. When you are going to crowded places, do not carry original documents. Instead, carry photocopies.
Air Tickets and Proof of Accommodation
Air tickets and hotel bookings are critical documents for traveling overseas. It may seem like an obvious piece of information. But they are included in this list, as you may forget to check for these documents when packing in a hurry. Take printouts or email soft copies of these documents to yourself as soon as you book. Add the travel dates to your calendar to get a timely reminder. Forgetting your tickets or hotel booking proof can sabotage your entire trip. So, ensure that you have printouts and e-copies of both of these documents handy with you.
Travel Insurance
You never know what could happen during your travels abroad. Travel insurance protects you from unexpected emergencies and accidents. It includes medical expenses, emergency hospitalizations, flight cancellations or delays, baggage loss, and more. If you fall sick or get injured while traveling internationally without health insurance coverage, the bills could add up to a hefty amount. Research different travel insurance options and opt for the one suitable for your trip length and budget.
List of Your Medications and Copies of Your Prescriptions
Packing your medications is essential. You might want to carry basic medicines for fever, cough, and headache if traveling long distances. But you must also pack a list of your medicines; a copy of your doctor’s prescription is also critical. Your health professional may ask you for your medical records or history in a medical emergency. Creating a list of your medications to securely create a personal health record of your prescriptions offers a convenient and organized way to manage your healthcare information. This digital solution ensures that your data is readily accessible whenever needed.
Health Insurance Information
Hospitals overseas may not accept foreign patients without insurance. You may have health insurance in your home country, but buying travel health insurance before traveling abroad is also good. Carry a copy of your travel health insurance, note the policy number in a safe place, and keep it handy. Your insurer may also provide a phone number to call in emergencies. Store that number on your phone so you can call them whenever needed.
COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate and Proof of Other Vaccines
Since the coronavirus abated, most countries have reduced travel restrictions, and travelers don’t need to get tested or quarantined on arrival. However, as a precaution, you should always keep a copy of your COVID-19 vaccine certificates on paper or digital. If you are taking a cruise or a long boat trip during your stay abroad, you may be asked for the certificate.
Drivers License and International Driving Permit
If you plan to drive a vehicle while traveling abroad, carry your driver’s license with you. In many countries, an international driving permit (IDP) is necessary for renting vehicles. An IDP translates your home country’s driving license into different languages. A police officer may ask for it in case of any accidents or traffic rule violations. It is usually valid for one year.
In Conclusion
There are many things to pack and remember when traveling abroad. However, you can safely cross this item off your list using a reliable online locker to store your health records. In the digital world, using online mediums to keep your personal and vital information private is best. It ensures that all your data is safe, and in an emergency, you can access it at the click of a button. We hope that this list of documents will help you remember all the essential papers for your trip.
